Where did the tradition of ornaments come from?
Thought to have originated in 16th century Germany, the first ornaments were nothing like what we know today. We call them “Christmas” trees, but the decorative evergreen long pre-dates the celebration of Christmas.
What are Old World ornaments made of?
glass
Molten glass is mouth-blown into finely carved molds made exclusively for Old World Christmas, before a hot solution of liquid silver is poured inside. The ornaments are then hand-painted and glittered in a series of labor-intensive steps to achieve the beautiful creations.
Where are Old World ornaments made?
Germany
Many of the old world Christmas ornaments were made in Germany, which has been exporting blown glass Christmas ornaments to the United States since the 1870s.
Who Makes Old World Christmas ornaments?
Merck family
In 1979, the Merck family of Washington state began manufacturing Christmas tree ornaments in this same tradition with the same authenticity and loving care, distributing them to families across the globe under the Old World Christmas brand.
What type of glass is used for ornaments?
Mercury glass starts with the artisan blowing glass into a mold, which allows them to create detailed objects. Once the glass has cooled and been removed from the mold, the silvering process can be started. Usually, a mixture of mercury and tin was then inserted through a small hole in the ornament to coat the inside.
What is the oldest Christmas ornament?
The first decorated trees were adorned with apples, white candy canes and pastries in the shapes of stars, hearts and flowers. Glass baubles were first made in Lauscha, Germany, by Hans Greiner (1550–1609), who produced garlands of glass beads and tin figures that could be hung on trees.
Are old Christmas ornaments valuable?
Because ornaments have been used annually holiday trees since around the turn of the 20th century on into the 1920s, so they rarely come to market in pristine condition now. When they do, they’re worth a good bit of cash to collectors. If you’re bargain-minded, shop for ornaments like these during the off-season.
What are Christmas balls called?
baubles
Christmas ornaments, baubles, “christmas bulbs” or “Christmas bubbles” are decoration items, usually to decorate Christmas trees.
Where did the idea of Halloween ornaments come from?
This set of 12 miniature ornaments (2 sets of 6) is a fun way to celebrate fall and Halloween. Halloween has its origins in the ancient festival of Samhain, the Celtic New Year, when spirits were allowed to return to earth to visit. Christianity incorporated this into All Hallow s Eve, Oct. 31, prior to All Saints Day.
Are there any spooky Christmas ornaments for Halloween?
From mini ghosts to trick-or-treat pumpkins, Old World Christmas offers the most collectible and spooky Halloween ornaments you’ll find anywhere! Please contact your local dealer to see if they have this item in stock. According to legend, black cats are associated with witches and have the gift of foretelling the future and seeing spirits.
Why did the Irish bring Halloween to America?
The Irish brought Halloween to America in the 1840s, with the tradition of dressing in costumes and playing pranks in the hope of keeping evil spirits away. Please contact your local dealer to see if they have this item in stock. According to legend, black cats have the gift of foretelling the future and seeing spirits.
Why are owls associated with Halloween and the Moon?
The moon casts eerie light on the darkest of nights, but especially on Halloween, so when the sounds of a lonesome owl hooting and screeching break the silence, it can be both beautiful and frightening! Once thought to be the companions of witches and wizards, owls are symbols of the mysterious and are associated often with Halloween.